Wall flats are designed to be installed over clean and dry surfaces. Before starting off the work, there are a few tools that are needed for a successful installation. These include:
• Cutting tools like utility knives or any other power cutting tool,
• Adhering material such as tile mastic, contact cement or double sided tape,
• Primers like professional level finish primer,
• Tools for finishing such as paintable caulk and paint.

Wall Preparation
If the surface where the wall flats are to be installed is glossy or has a coat of paint, the installer should first rough up the surface using sandpaper. The surface should then be wiped clean using damp rag.

Tile Mastic Adhering
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the set and dry time. A trowel should be used for adhesive application.
• A V-notched 3/16” trowel is ideal for smooth surfaces while a 5/16 V-notched is best for rough or uneven surfaces.
• The tiles may need to be shaped in order to fit into certain areas. The shaping can be done with a putty knife if the area to be covered is small. The knife can also be used to flatten tiles that have a slight bow so that they lie flat on the adhesive.
• One should ensure that the tiles are tightly butted against each other.
• To minimize seams, the tiles can be slightly offset and slid into place preventing excess mastic from getting into the spaces between the tiles.
• Excess adhesive can be removed using a dam rag. However, avoid excessive rubbing on tiles that have not been coated with primer.

Contact Cement Adhering
• Here, it is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on use. The fumes from contact cement are flammable and therefore, safety is paramount.
• The tiles should be pre-cut before applying the adhesive.
• A brush or roller should be used to apply an even coat of contact cement to the wall and the back of the tiles.
• Let the adhesive dry for about fifteen minutes.
• Pay careful attention while joining because the bond will be permanent. Apply gentle contact on the tiles to ensure bonding.

Finishing
• Apply paintable caulk on the tiles to minimize seams.
• Remove excess mastic by running a putty knife or tiny finger over the joints
• Finish off by applying a coat of primer to seal the tiles.